Overview of Staurothele succedens (Rehm) Arnold
Staurothele succedens (Rehm) Arnold is a type of lichen that belongs to the order Teloschistales and family Teloschistaceae. It is commonly known as the Orange Shield Lichen, and has a widespread distribution throughout North America, Europe, and Asia.
General appearance of Staurothele succedens
The lichen Staurothele succedens has a crust-like thallus, which can range in colour from light yellow-orange to dark orange. The thallus is smooth to slightly granular with a diameter ranging from 2-3cm. It has projections on the surface known as apothecia; these are disc-shaped and have a diameter that ranges from 0.3-1mm. The apothecia are orange to red-orange in colour with a slightly raised margin.
Uses of Staurothele succedens
Staurothele succedens is a highly sensitive species that acts as an environmental indicator. It is commonly used to assess air quality and to monitor long-term changes in the environment. Lichens, in general, are known to produce molecules with biological activity such as antibacterial, antiviral, and anticancer properties. Staurothele succedens has been identified as a potential source for the production of biologically active molecules.
In traditional medicine, some lichens have been used to treat various ailments including infections, digestive problems, and skin diseases. However, it is important to note that lichens can contain toxic substances, and should not be consumed without proper knowledge and expertise.
Conclusion
Staurothele succedens is an ornamental and useful lichen species that has become increasingly important as an environmental indicator and source of biologically active compounds. Its unique appearance, coupled with its sensitivity to environmental changes, makes it a valuable species for biodiversity conservation and climate change research.
Light Requirements
Staurothele succedens is a shade-loving plant that prefers indirect sunlight or low light conditions. It grows well in shaded areas with partial exposure to morning or evening sun. However, it should not be exposed to direct sunlight for extended periods as it may damage the foliage.
Temperature Requirements
This plant thrives in a warm and humid environment with moderate to high temperatures. The ideal temperature range for Staurothele succedens is between 20-30°C (68-86°F). It can survive at temperatures as low as 10°C (50°F) but may not grow as well in cooler conditions. Temperatures above 35°C (95°F) can be detrimental to the plant's health, and it is important to provide adequate ventilation during hot weather.
Soil Requirements
Staurothele succedens requires well-draining soil that is rich in organic matter. The soil should be kept consistently moist but not waterlogged. A mixture of peat moss, perlite or vermiculite, and sand can provide a suitable growing medium. The pH of the soil should be slightly acidic to neutral, with a range between 5.5-7.0.
Cultivation of Staurothele succedens
Staurothele succedens is a slow-growing plant that thrives in low light and is tolerant of a wide range of temperatures. It is commonly grown in terrariums or on logs indoors.
The plant requires high humidity and should be kept in a moist environment to ensure its survival. To create a suitable environment, mist the plant regularly, or place it on a bed of sphagnum moss.
Watering Needs
Staurothele succedens requires consistent and frequent watering to thrive. It is best to keep the soil moist but not waterlogged. Water once a week and avoid letting the soil completely dry out. If the plant is kept in a terrarium, misting may be sufficient to maintain moisture levels.
Fertilization
Feed Staurothele succedens once a month during the growing season with a balanced soluble fertilizer. Only apply fertilizer to moist soil, as applying it to dry soil may damage the plant's roots. Avoid over-fertilizing, which can lead to salt build-up in the soil and leaf burn.
Pruning
Staurothele succedens requires minimal pruning. Trim off any dead or brown leaves to promote the growth of new leaves. Pruning should be done using clean, sharp scissors to prevent damage or infection to the plant. It is also important to avoid removing too many leaves at once, as this can stress the plant and slow its growth.
Propagation of Staurothele succedens
Staurothele succedens is a lichenized fungus that grows on the bark of trees and shrubs. It can be propagated through several means, including:
Fragmentation
Fragmentation is the easiest and most common method of propagating Staurothele succedens. Simply remove a small piece of the lichen and attach it to a suitable substrate. The substrate should be the same as what the lichen is normally found growing on, which is usually the bark of trees or shrubs.
Soredium
Soredium is another method of propagation for Staurothele succedens. Soredia are small packages of fungal hyphae and algal cells that can be found on the thallus of some lichens. They can detach themselves from the thallus and grow into new individuals. To propagate Staurothele succedens using soredia, simply pick some off the thallus and place them on a suitable substrate.
Isidia
Isidia are small outgrowths on the thallus of some lichens that can detach and grow into new individuals. They are less common than soredia in Staurothele succedens, but can still be used for propagation. Simply pick some off the thallus and place them on a suitable substrate.
Regardless of the propagation method chosen, Staurothele succedens prefers moist and humid conditions with indirect light. With proper care and attention, it will grow well and thrive.
Disease Management
Staurothele succedens is a relatively disease-resistant plant, but it can still be affected by certain pathogens. One of the most common diseases that affect this plant is leaf spot, which manifests as small, dark spots on the leaves. To manage leaf spot, it is important to remove and destroy affected leaves as soon as possible. Additionally, providing good air circulation and avoiding overhead watering can help prevent the spread of the disease.
Another disease that can affect Staurothele succedens is root rot. This is usually caused by overwatering or poor drainage and can lead to wilting, yellowing, and eventual death of the plant. To manage root rot, it is important to ensure that the plant is not sitting in water and the potting soil is well-draining. Additionally, it may be helpful to apply a fungicide to the soil to prevent further infection.
Pest Management
Staurothele succedens is also relatively pest-resistant, but there are a few common pests that can affect this plant. One such pest is spider mites, which can cause yellowing and stippling of the leaves. To manage spider mites, it is important to regularly inspect the plant and, if found, spray it with a strong blast of water to dislodge the pests. Additionally, applying a neem oil or insecticidal soap can help control the infestation.
Another pest that can affect Staurothele succedens is scale insects, which are small, immobile insects that attach themselves to the leaves and stems of the plant. They can cause yellowing, wilting, and eventual death of the plant. To manage scale insects, it is important to regularly inspect the plant and, if found, use a cotton swab dipped in rubbing alcohol to remove them from the plant. Additionally, applying a systemic insecticide can help control the infestation.
